Wednesday, July 8, 2009

This shot was the cover of Climbing in 2000. John Bachar soloing the Gift, Red Rocks Nevada. Photo by John McDonald.

Rest in Peace, John.

Bachar was a huge hero to me. Uncompromising, bold, strong and forward-thinking. He pushed climbing big-time.

When I first saw this photo I had just unsuccessfully tried to hang-dog my way up The Gift. This was my favorite photo for years.

John Bachar's death has fucked with my headspace. That guy was as rock-solid as rock-solid gets. If he can blow it soloing, I guess everyone can. I am so shocked. It's unhinging to have a hero die. Ever since I was a kid I thought Bachar was immortal- in a different league. I feel odd and sad.